And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.  As we look out on God’s creation this fall may we be reminded of His goodness.  Moses was receiving the second set of tablets when this verse was given.  I for one, am glad that God is merciful,  gracious,  long-suffering,  and abundant in goodness!  It is as if God is saying to Israel,  you blew it, but I still love you, and here’s another set of commandments.   Not another in that they are different,  another as in I’m giving you another chance!  This pastor would not be here if it were not for the fact that God is good!  It is this eternal goodness and grace that leads men to repentance.   Giving us another chance, even when we do not deserve it!  That’s why it is called grace!  When you see the leaves changing this fall remember… God never changes!  He’s still merciful!
He’s still gracious!  He’s still God!  Help us O Lord to serve you with gladness,  because of your goodness!  Amen.  Pastor